After the corruption scandal surrounding the European Parliament, the lobbying rules have now been tightened: Ex-MPs are not allowed to work as lobbyists for six months after their departure. The reform takes effect on May 1.
What is new is that former MEPs must register in a register if they want to work as a lobbyist after a minimum of six months. As a result, they “are not entitled to access rights and opportunities that they had as former MPs”. Further measures will be examined in the coming weeks, it said. The reform goes back to a plan by parliament speaker Roberta Metsola, which was approved by the leaders of the parliamentary groups.
600,000 euros found at Pier Antonio Panzeri
The corruption scandal surrounding the EU Parliament became known in December. A total of 1.5 million euros in cash was seized. The affair concerns alleged attempts by the Gulf Emirates of Qatar and Morocco to bribe representatives of the EU parliament in order to influence European Union policy.
Former Italian MP Pier Antonio Panzeri plays a central role. He has already admitted to passing large sums of money to other MPs. During a house search in December, 600,000 euros in cash was found with the former politician.
The governments of Qatar and Morocco deny the allegations. As a result, the EU Parliament has already approved several reforms aimed at providing better protection against foreign influence.
Source: Krone
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